Planet Fitness Franchise is one of the largest and fastest-growing gym franchisors, known for its affordable “Judgement Free Zone®” gyms. For entrepreneurs interested in investing in the fitness/franchise business, owning a Planet Fitness franchise can be attractive—but it also requires a substantial investment and careful planning.
In this blog, you will learn:
- Planet Fitness franchise cost
- How much profit you might earn
- The steps to apply for a franchise
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Planet Fitness Franchise?
Planet Fitness has built a strong brand reputation worldwide for offering affordable fitness experiences in a friendly, non-intimidating environment. Its “Judgement Free Zone®” model attracts millions of members each year, making it one of the fastest-growing gym brands in the world.
With a proven business model, recurring membership revenue, and high demand for low-cost fitness solutions, Planet Fitness stands out as a solid opportunity for investors.
Benefits of Owning a Planet Fitness Franchise
- Proven Business Model: Years of operational success and franchise experience.
- Strong Brand Recognition: Planet Fitness is a household name in the fitness industry.
- Recurring Income: Monthly membership revenue ensures consistent cash flow.
- Training & Support: The franchisor provides extensive support with site selection, setup, marketing, and operations.
- Scalable Opportunity: Once you succeed with one location, you can expand and own multiple units.
Planet Fitness Franchise Cost & Investment Breakdown
Here’s an overview of the estimated investment required to open a Planet Fitness franchise:
| Expense Type | Estimated Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $20,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements / Build-out | $1,250,000 – $2,142,000 |
| Fitness Equipment | $43,000 – $1,059,000 |
| Non-Fitness Equipment | $76,000 – $1,061,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | $40,000 – $112,000 |
| Exterior Signage | $12,000 – $39,000 |
| Computer Systems / POS | $3,000 – $13,000 |
| Insurance, Licenses, Professional Fees | Variable |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $60,000 – $500,000+ |
Total Estimated Investment: $1.5 million – $5.2 million+
Financial Requirements:
- Net Worth: $3 million minimum
- Liquid Assets: $1.5 million minimum
Planet Fitness Franchise Profit & Revenue Potential
Revenue and profit can vary based on location, rent, and member base, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:
| Metric | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Revenue per Club | $1.7 – $1.8 million |
| Royalty Fee | 7% of total gross membership fees |
| Advertising / National Fund | 2% of membership fees |
| Local Advertising | Varies by region |
Estimated Profit Margin: 10% – 20% after expenses
Average Annual Profit: $200,000 – $400,000+
ROI Period: Approximately 4–7 years, depending on performance and location.
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How to Apply for a Planet Fitness Franchise
Follow these steps if you’re interested in becoming a Planet Fitness franchise owner:
- Check Availability
Confirm if Planet Fitness is currently accepting franchise applications in your region. - Meet Financial Requirements
Ensure you meet the net worth and liquidity requirements before applying. - Submit Franchise Inquiry Form
Complete and submit the official franchise inquiry form on Planet Fitness’s website. - Attend Franchise Meeting
Discuss details about operations, costs, and territory availability with the company’s franchise team. - Select and Approve Location
Work with the franchisor to identify and approve an optimal location. - Sign Agreement and Begin Setup
Once approved, sign the franchise agreement, pay the required fees, and begin site setup and training. - Grand Opening
Launch your Planet Fitness gym and begin operations with ongoing corporate support.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Planet Fitness Franchise
Pros
- Highly recognizable and trusted global fitness brand
- Recurring revenue from memberships
- Comprehensive support from the franchisor
- Strong marketing and operational systems
- Opportunity to expand with multiple locations
Cons
- High initial investment required
- Competitive fitness market
- Limited flexibility due to brand standards
- Success depends heavily on local demographics and location
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to invest to start a Planet Fitness franchise?
The total cost typically ranges between $1.5 million and $5.2 million depending on size, build-out, and location.
What kind of earnings can I expect?
Franchise owners often earn between $200,000 and $400,000 annually in profit once the gym is established.
Do I need experience in fitness?
Not necessarily. Planet Fitness provides comprehensive training and operational support to new franchisees.
How does a Planet Fitness franchise make money?
Mainly through monthly and annual membership fees, plus premium memberships and small ancillary services.
Is Planet Fitness currently accepting new franchise applications?
Availability may vary by region. Always check the official Planet Fitness website for current franchise opportunities.
Conclusion: Is a Planet Fitness Franchise the Right Choice for You?
If you have the capital, business expertise, and a passion for fitness, owning a Planet Fitness franchise can be a lucrative opportunity. With a strong global brand, a loyal customer base, and a recurring income model, this franchise offers long-term growth potential. However, due diligence, location analysis, and strong operational execution are key to success.
Ready to start your journey? Visit the official Planet Fitness franchise page to learn more and begin the application process.
